The MotoGP paddock is reeling from a shock decision by Yamaha to skip this weekend's race at the Lusail International Circuit. The manufacturer cited existing company-wide travel restrictions, a move that forces Fabio Quartararo, Alex Rins, and Pramac riders Jack Miller and Augusto Fernandez to sit out the 20th round of the season.
MotoGP Group expressed their disappointment regarding the withdrawal. In an official statement, they noted, "While we recognise the team is subject to a broader corporate policy restricting travel to the Middle East, we do not believe this decision reflects the extensive assurances provided to all championship stakeholders." MotoGP maintains that the event remains safe based on their ongoing risk assessment process.
Meanwhile, Marc Marquez has a golden opportunity to secure his tenth world title in Qatar. The championship leader needs to outscore Jorge Martin by 30 points and Marco Bezzecchi by eight points to clinch the crown before the season finale. Due to the late arrival of several riders, including Marquez who landed on Thursday night, the pre-event press conference has been delayed by four hours.
The casualty list in Qatar extends beyond the Yamaha camp. Alex Marquez is confirmed to be out while recovering from right shoulder surgery, while Joan Mir is sidelined again due to recurring vision issues. Elsewhere, Jorge Martin and Fermin Aldeguer face crucial medical checks on Thursday to determine their fitness to compete following injuries sustained in the previous round.
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